Juventus now face fresh defensive concerns just before the knockout stage begins.
The Italian side not only suffered a heavy defeat to Manchester City, but also received another setback from that same match—defender Nicolo Savona picked up an ankle injury and has been ruled out for the rest of the Club World Cup.
Despite securing qualification to the knockout rounds with two wins in their first two matches, Juventus faced City on Thursday in a group decider. The 5–2 defeat meant they finished as runners-up.
Savona was forced off in the 60th minute after sustaining the injury. The following day, the club confirmed that he would play no further part in the tournament.
The Serie A giants, record domestic champions, are set to face Real Madrid in the round of 16 on Tuesday.
The 22-year-old had started all three group matches and was a key part of Juventus’ backline. Tests revealed a significant ligament injury in his left foot. The club has already begun his rehabilitation process, and his condition will be reassessed in about a month.
